How to Find the Quiet Moments on Nantucket Island

Sconset Bluff Walk to Sankaty Lighthouse

The Sconset Bluff Walk is not a secret! In fact, whenever I go, I always pass at least two families, a couple, and someone with a dog. However, the important insight is to continue walking north up Baxter Road to the Sankaty Lighthouse instead of turning around at the end of the designated bluff trail. This is an iconic fixture of the island, and you get to enjoy a nice view of Sankaty Head Golf Club as well.

Paddleboarding in the harbor

On a day with low winds, the Nantucket harbor looks like glass. Rent a paddleboard in town and go out on the water, weaving between the buoyed boats and into the Boat Basin docks.

Biking the Polpis Bike Loop

You do not have to be a Tour de France participant to do this scenic, medium-length bike ride. If it’s your first time in Nantucket, it’s a great way to make sure you venture beyond town and see other regions of the island, such as Sconset, Wauwinet, and Tom Nevers (if you choose to do a little detour). Start anywhere on this circle loop and bike Milestone Road to Main Street to Sankaty Road to Polpis Road.

Tupancy Links Trail

This is particularly important if you have a dog. Nantucket is a dog’s paradise as much as it is an adult’s. This Nantucket Conservation Foundation site is a great place for a morning or evening stroll and a safe place to take your dog off-leash.

Sunset at Monomoy

Everyone claims the 40th Pole beach or Madaket beach as the best sunset spots on island. But beauty is objective, and loud crowds can ruin your sunset serenity. So if you want to enjoy a beautiful view of the town skyline against a cotton-candy sky, I suggest the public beach stretch in Monomoy instead.

Breakfast

• Born and Bread
  If you want to go here in the morning, then make sure it’s at the top of your agenda and you get there before the breakfast rush at 9 a.m., or be prepared to wait in a line that stretches down the brick sidewalks. It is worth it! Great sandwiches and even better coffee drinks.

• Lemon Press
  They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (on the weekends) but breakfast really is their strength. Their menu is inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, and, in 2026, they are hosting a Mahjong summer series every Thursday!

Lunch

• Something Natural
  This is the epitome of my childhood. My parents took me here and my order hasn’t changed in 20 years. Turkey sandwich on their famous Portuguese bread. This is a wholesome outdoor sandwich location, and you may recognize their flower logo, which is a popular car decal.

Dinner

• Brant Point Grill
  This is included in my Loud Moments of Nantucket destination guide as well because this restaurant is popular with families during the 5:30–7 p.m. window and also with the late-night crowd after that. This restaurant is attached to the White Elephant Hotel and has just been renovated. Come early if you would like to enjoy a front-row-seat view of golden hour on the harbor while dining.

• Sandbar
  This restaurant is casual and great for an early dinner post-beach day. One of two restaurants on Nantucket that are actually on top of the beach and you can put your feet in the sand. Order the fish tacos.

• Straight Wharf Fish Market
  A great recent addition to the town’s restaurant options and separate but related to the classic Straight Wharf restaurant right next door. They have a large menu and a polished atmosphere. Order the tuna burger.